Aryna Sabalenka Couldn’t “Relate” to Pam Shriver’s Frustration of Australian Open’s Bizarre Scheduling Decision

The Australian Open 2025 has begun with its signature flair. Though the liveliest attractions are not merely limited to the courts. There is far more to chew on than the average baseline drama. And now? Pam Shriver has stirred a fresh controversy. Former American Pro, known for never mincing her words, called out the tournament’s scheduling choices, slamming them for sidelining women’s matches into less-advantageous viewing hours. The debate over gender equality is back—and louder than ever.

Aryna Sabalenka has also joined the debate but with a slightly different perspective. Moments after dismantling rising star Mirra Andreeva in a commanding 6-1, 6-2 opening-round victory, the Belarussian responded to the growing furor in a post-match conference with “I just don’t relate to that,” shrugging off the controversy. In a post-match conference, Sabalenka reflected,  “I enjoy playing at both times because if you finish early, you can have dinner, relax, and get to bed at a reasonable hour, which helps with recovery,” she said. “At the same time, playing at 7 p.m. has its own charm—the atmosphere in a packed stadium is incredible.”